of each other, and that both suspected the Jasper B. But of what
did they suspect Cleggett? What intention did they impute to
him? He could only wonder.

Through the entire morning he was conscious of the continuance of
this watch. He thought it ceased about luncheon time; but at two
in the afternoon he was certain that, if so, it had been resumed.

Cleggett, innocent and honorable, began to get impatient of this
persistent scrutiny. And in spite of his courage a vague
uneasiness began to possess him. Towards the end of the
afternoon he called his little company aft and spoke to them.

"My men," he said, "I do not like the attitude of our neighbors.
To put it briefly, there may be squalls ahead of the Jasper B.
This is a wild and desolate coast, comparatively speaking.
Strange things have happened to innocent people before this along
the shores of Long Island. It is well to be prepared. I intend
to serve out to each of you two hundred cartridges and a .44
caliber Colt's. In case of an attempt to board, you may find
these cutlasses handy.

"Cap'n Abernethy, in all nautical matters you will still be in
command of the ship, but in case of a military demonstration, all
of you will look to me for leadership. You may go now and rig up
a jury mast and bend the American colors to the peak--and in case
of blows, may God defend the right! I know I do not need to
exhort you to do your duty!"

As Cleggett spoke the spirit which animated him seemed to